Matthew is a big advocate of supporting local businesses. And the YouTube channel is also used to shout out local companies and suppliers that the Botica Group works with. ‘We acknowledge other local businesses that have helped us,’ Matthew reports before adding, ‘We did a thank you to the signwriters and suppliers of the racking in our new premises.’ He says there’s no motive other than genuine appreciation, and the response has been much stronger than anticipated, with plenty of likes and shares.
While timber may be one of the oldest and most used commodities for humankind, Botica Group is constantly looking for ways to innovate. Founder Ivan Botica was a great innovator, dedicating his life to improving procedures and inventing techniques that are used internationally within the industry today. This dedication to innovation remains a key part of the company’s DNA.
Botica Group is a strong advocate for sustainability. ‘We’re definitely behind the drive to greener alternatives and protecting forests,’ says Matthew. This commitment to using resources sensibly and sustainably is a core value of the business.
He adds that in recent years, the company has promoted thermally modified products – timber that has been altered without the use of chemicals. These products are more sustainable and non-toxic than chemically treated wood, making them perfect for weatherboards, cladding, and decks.
Work keeps Matthew super busy, and with wife Betty-Jane and four young children, there’s not much downtime. However, just like his father, Matthew shares a love for fishing, winemaking and sport.
Botica Group is a proud sponsor of the Waitākere Bears baseball club. And while Matthew enjoys cheering his kids on from the sidelines, he’s seriously thinking about picking up a bat and turning out for a social team this season.
Matthew enjoyed playing soccer in his younger days at Oratia Football Club and now loves watching his kids play the beautiful game. And as long-time Oratia residents, Matthew and his family also share a love of the bush and enjoy exploring and hiking in the Waitākere Ranges.
A successful businessman since the age of 22, Matthew has the following advice for others: ‘Keep learning. I find that if you’re not learning or actively looking for ways to do things better or help customers have a better experience, you end up going backwards.’ He says that’s the philosophy and culture that keeps driving Botica Group forward. ‘When customers perceive that, they keep coming back,’ he adds.
Botica Group’s customers have been coming back for decades now, so there’s no doubt that Matthew knows what he’s talking about.
Botica Group, 67 The Concourse, Henderson. W: boticagroup.co.nz